There is some repetition, but the eloquence and honesty of the writers overcomes this. Contributors (numbered, to preserve their anonymity) describe how easy and seductive it can be to slide into the high-energy altered states that come with mania, which often become almost impossible to pull out of before the situation becomes uncontrollable. Most agree that being able to recognise their own triggers can help them avoid worse episodes, and if family and friends can also spot when someone is about to go ‘up’, they can step in and put pre-arranged wellbeing plans into action. The importance of getting this down on paper before it’s needed is a major message that reappears throughout the book. Planning, along with medication, avoiding stress and stimulants, and sticking to a healthy diet and regular exercise, seems to be the key to avoiding the trauma that can come with an out-of-control, delusional high.

What about the link between creativity and mania? The debate continues, but while many of these writers believe they are more artistic when manic, they find it difficult or impossible to refine the prolific output produced during these chaotic periods. What seems like genius at the time can be revealed as garbage in the clarity that comes with a return to sanity. Even though the highs may beckon, one person’s realisation that "the cold hard truth is that it gets in the way" of their other stable, happy and secure life is echoed throughout the book.

Mastering Bipolar Disorder will be invaluable for anyone coming to terms with their diagnosis and for friends and relatives willing to gain more insight into this bewildering and often frightening condition. It should be required reading for health and community services professionals and will certainly help to chip away at the stigma and myth surrounding this widespread and manageable mental illness. Allen & Unwin, RRP $24.95.